BASKING RIDGE, NJ - Continuing a tradition in the Northeast United States that was begun centuries ago by Native Americans and colonists, the Somerset County Park Commission invites children and adults to a 90-minute program to witness how Maple trees are tapped, learn about sap collecting methods from the past and present, and experience the boiling process that produces delicious New Jersey Maple Syrup.

Free public programs take place at the Environmental Education Center Sugar Shack at 190 Lord Stirling Road in Basking Ridge, New Jersey on Saturdays and Sundays, February 2 & 3; February 9 & 10; February 16 & 17; February 23 & 24; March 2 & 3; and March 9 & 10.

Saturday Maple Sugar program times are at 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, and 2:00 PM. Sunday maple sugar program times are at 12:00 Noon, and 2:00 PM. Participants should allow at least twenty minutes to walk from the Center to the sugar shack. Organized groups, such as Scouts, may schedule demonstrations during one of the time blocks by contacting the EEC at 908-766-2489, ext. 332.

The ”Sugar Shack,” run by the Somerset County Park Commission Naturalists, is a one-half mile walk through the forest from the Environmental Education Center building. Along the way, visitors will witness the Great Swamp in a setting that summer visitors never see. Trails are well marked and easy to follow. The site is accessible to mobility- impaired individuals with forty-eight hours notice providing that weather and ground conditions permit.

Naturalist Rich Hoffman, coordinator of the program stated, “The program provides background on the manufacture of maple syrup, its history, technology, and food production in addition to education the natural environment. But, what I like most about the program is that it is fun to be in the winter woods, smelling the sweetness coming from the sugar house and being near the warmth of the fire.”

Information and trail conditions may be obtained by calling 908-766-2489. Individuals with hearing impairments may call NJ Relay at 711.

Information on this event and other Somerset County Park Commission activities may be found on the Internet at www.somersetcountyparks.org